If literacy rates were measured by a nation’s proverbs and poetry, Afghanistan would be one of the most literate countries on earth. These two forms of the oral tradition have been embraced for centuries and reveal the heart and soul of the Afghan people.

Bamiyan

Proverbs are part of every culture and have been for thousands of years. Francis Bacon said that the wit, genius, and spirit of a nation are discovered in its proverbs. Here are some common Afghan proverbs which provide unique insights into the ancient culture.

Maimana

There is a path to even the tallest mountain.

Hindu Kush Mountains

The mountains are our people.

The harsh land is integral to this nomadic herder culture with deep roots in high pastures. “Koh-o mar-domon moya,” a saying goes: “The mountains are our people.” Qala-e Sabzi.

A warm fire is better than a delicious meal.

Refugees return to their bombed out neighborhood in Herat

If there is only bread and onions, still have a happy face.

Kabul

In a ditch where water has flowed, it will flow again.

Irrigation channel, Kandahar

Many drops make a river.

Between Sarobi and Kabul

A real friend is one who takes the hand of his friend in times of distress and helplessness.

Kabul

Kandahar

Not even the five fingers of our hands are alike.

Textile Dyer, Kabul

There is blessing in action.

Bakery run by Afghan widows

Brick Workers, Bamiyan Province

First a friend then a brother.

Herat

POETRY

In Afghanistan, the tradition of poetry writing and recitation dates back a thousand years. To lend credibility to an argument, the preface, “The poet says…” denies the listener the opportunity to disagree. Although many do not read or write, they can recite long passages of both classic and modern poetry.

If leadership rests inside the lion’s jaw,

So be it. Go snatch it from his jaws.

Your lot shall be greatness, prestige, honor and glory.

If all fails, face death like a man.

Hanzala of Badghis – 9th century poet

Wounded Afghan fighter outside of Jalalabad

Kabul

Ah! How beautiful is Kabul encircled by her arid mountains
And Rose, of the trails of thorns she envies
Her gusts of powdered soil, slightly sting my eyes
But I love her, for knowing and loving are born of this same dust

My song exhalts her dazzling tulipsAnd at the beauty of her trees, I blushHow sparkling the water flows from Pul-I-Mastaan!May Allah protect such beauty from the evil eye of man!

Khizr chose the path to Kabul in order to reach ParadiseFor her mountains brought him close to the delights of heavenFrom the fort with sprawling walls, A Dragon of protectionEach stone is there more precious than the treasure of Shayagan

Every street of Kabul is enthralling to the eyeThrough the bazaars, caravans of Egypt passOne could not count the moons that shimmer on her roofs